Dodge Challenger Goes Out of Production, But May Return Later

Dodge CEO Unsure About Future of Challenger Nameplate, No Plans for Current Vehicle

According to Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis, the Challenger nameplate will not be making a comeback anytime soon. At the launch preview of the new Dodge Charger and Charger Daytona, which feature both electric and combustion engines, Kuniskis stated that the company has no plans to revive the Challenger. He explained, “We own the Challenger nameplate. We have a variety of nameplates in our possession. However, we are not currently utilizing it for this vehicle.”

Although the title may have been frozen, the underlying principles of the vehicle remain intact.

The latest Charger and Charger Daytona (with Daytona representing the electric variant) are now up for grabs in both two-door and four-door variations, bringing together both body designs into one unified branding. Thus, although the Challenger may have succumbed to its demise in title, a two-door powerhouse has emerged to fill its shoes.

For those familiar with the background of the Charger and Challenger models, the reintroduction of a two-door Charger may be seen as a nod to its history. Initially launched in 1966, the Charger remained a popular two-door muscle car until its fifth generation ceased production in 1987. However, when the nameplate was revived in 2005 on the LX platform, it became a more practical four-door sedan. In contrast, the Challenger has always been a classic two-door coupe.

Despite Chrysler’s efforts, there may still be some lingering confusion surrounding the new Charger. This is due to the fact that this latest model essentially combines four distinct versions into one. The ICE and EV options are distinguished only by their Daytona labeling and minor variations in appearance – aspects we will examine more closely later on. However, the main cause for potential confusion lies in the fact that both the two-door and four-door versions will now fall under the Charger name, which may be perplexing for prospective buyers.

As we have observed from the feedback on the disclosure posts and our social media channels, it has become evident that many enthusiasts of the Dodge label are not aware that there are two distinct body configurations operating under a single name in certain cases. Additionally, there seems to be ignorance among some individuals regarding the gasoline-fueled Charger, despite its status as one of the most poorly kept secrets in the automotive industry over the past year.

The potential for Dodge to alter its system of naming may ultimately depend on the reception of these vehicles, a determination that can only be made with the passing of time. Production of the Charger Daytona’s coupe models is set to commence this year, while the four-door and ICE variations are scheduled for production in the first quarter of 2025.